Plug-Ins and Libraries

You can download and install plug-ins or libraries to add extra functionality to Audacity. Plug-ins can give you extra effects, or more audio generation and analysis capability. Adding libraries can allow you to import or export additional audio formats.

Plug-In Installation

To install new LADSPA or Nyquist plug-ins, place them in the Plug-Ins folder inside the Audacity installation folder. On Windows computers, this is usually under "Program Files". On Mac OS X, it is usually under "Applications". On Linux, you can use various plug-in locations. Restart Audacity, then the addded plug-ins will appear underneath the divider in the "Effect", "Generate" or "Analyze" menus.

LADSPA Plug-Ins

Audacity has built-in support for LADSPA plug-ins. These plug-ins are mostly built for Linux, but some are available for other operating systems too. Audacity includes some sample LADSPA effects. Windows users can install an additional set of over 90 LADSPA plug-ins. There is a similar set of LADSPA plug-ins for Mac. More information and many LADSPA plug-ins for Linux can be found on the LADSPA web site.

LV2 Plug-Ins

Audacity has built-in support for LV2 plug-ins, which are an extensible successor of LADSPA effects. LV2 plug-ins are mostly built for Linux, but Audacity supports LV2 on all operating systems. To install LV2 plug-ins, place them in the system LV2 location then restart Audacity.

Nyquist Plug-Ins

Audacity has built-in support for Nyquist effects on all operating systems. You can download additional Nyquist plug-ins, or create your own using the Nyquist programming language. Nyquist code can be tested using "Nyquist Prompt" under the Effect menu, or code for Nyquist plug-ins that generate audio can be quickly tested with Nyquist Generate Prompt.

VST Plug-Ins

Audacity can load VST effects (but not VST instruments) on all operating systems. The VST Enabler is no longer required. Enable "Rescan VST effects" in the Effects Preferences and restart Audacity when you want to add new effects. See "How do I install VST plug-ins?" for more information.